The Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana or SSSY is a scheme launched by the government of India to show financial support and appreciation towards Indian freedom fighters. The SSSY provides a source of pension to eligible freedom fighters (and their dependents) who have fought for the country’s independence. This scheme was launched on 15th August 1972 to recognise the sacrifices made by the ‘swatantrata sainiks’ or freedom fighters.
Let’s learn more about the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana.
What is the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana?
It is a central government scheme that offers a monthly pension amount to freedom fighters and their eligible dependents. By doing so, it acts as a reliable pension plan for these individuals. The pension amount can vary based on the category the freedom fighter falls under.
The freedom fighter receives a specific amount each month, which includes the basic pension amount and the dearness allowance. Their spouses and dependents are also eligible to receive a specified amount, in case of the freedom fighter’s unfortunate demise. The pension amount is exempted from taxation, thus providing the individuals with substantial retirement plan tax benefits.
The list of eligible dependents under the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana include:
i. Widow/ widower of the freedom fighter
ii. Mother
iii. Father
iv. Unmarried daughter (maximum three daughters eligible).
For the dependents, the pension plan is only applicable until:
i. The widow or widower remarries
ii. The daughter gets married or becomes independent
iii. The dependent parent is alive.
Only one dependent is eligible for the pension.
Who is Eligible for the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana?
The following individuals are eligible for the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Pension Scheme:
- Ex-political prisoners who have been in Cellular Jail or ‘Kala Pani’ in the Andamans (and their spouses)
- Freedom fighters who have fought outside of the British Indian territory (and their spouses)
- Other freedom fighters and their spouses (ex-Indian National Army personnel also included)
- Dependent parents and unmarried daughters (dependent, maximum of three daughters covered under the scheme).
Here is a detailed explanation of the eligible candidates for the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Pension Scheme:
- Dependents of deceased freedom fighters who sacrificed their lives by being involved in India’s freedom struggle.
- Individuals who have served at least six months (three months for women and individuals from SC/ST communities) in jail for participating in the freedom movement.
- Those who remained underground for over six months as a part of the freedom struggle.
- Those who have had their property confiscated, destroyed, or forcibly sold as a result of their participation in the country’s independence movement.
- Individuals who suffered permanent disabilities due to firing or lathi charge during the freedom struggle.
- Individuals who had to suffer physical punishment (such as caning, flogging, whipping) for their involvement in the movement.
- Government employees who lost their jobs because of participating in the freedom struggle.
The above individuals are eligible to receive pension under the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana.
How to Apply for the SSSY?
To apply for the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana, you must follow these steps:
Step 1: Get two free copies of the application form from the respective State Government/Union Territory (UT) administration. You can also get it from the Freedom Fighters’ Division, Ministry of Home Affairs, which is located on the 1st Floor, Lok Nayak Bhawan in New Delhi.
Step 2: Fill out the application form and attach the required documents. If necessary, you can self-attest the copies.
Step 3: Send the first completed copy to the Chief Secretary of your State Government or Union Territory administration.
Step 4: Send the second copy (as an advance copy) to the Deputy Secretary, Government of India, Freedom Fighters’ Division, Ministry of Home Affairs, First Floor, Lok Nayak Bhawan, New Delhi – 3.
Documents Required for the SSSY Application
The documentation to apply for the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana depends on the category the freedom fighter falls under.
a. For those who were imprisoned/detained:
- A certificate from the concerned jail authorities, District Magistrates, or the State Government.
- A co-prisoner certificate from a sitting or former MP/MLA confirming the jail period, in case the above certificate is not available.
b. Those who remained underground
- Proof, such as a court or government order that declares the applicant as an offender. Also, proofs where a reward is placed on their head, an arrest warrant is issued, or detention has been ordered, are also valid.
- If the above is not available, certificates from veteran freedom fighters who themselves served at least five years in prison will also work.
c. Those who suffered internment or externment
- An official order of internment/externment or any other supporting evidence.
- If such records are officially unavailable, a certificate from a veteran freedom fighter who served at least five years in prison will also work.
d. Those who suffered loss of property or job
- Official documents showing the confiscation or sale of property.
- Official orders declaring the individual has been dismissed or removed from their job due to participation in the freedom struggle.
Documents and Information Needed at the Time of Receiving the Pension
In addition to the above, you must also provide the following when receiving the pension from the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana:
- A recent photograph.
- Two identification marks.
- A sign, or left-hand thumb marks and finger impressions in case of fighters not literate enough to sign their names (these must be attested by a competent authority).
- Date of birth.
The individual must present the above documents to the Treasury Officer/Sub-Treasury Officer.
To Conclude
The Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana can provide a regular source of income during one’s golden years.
However, eligible candidates can improve their financial strength by opting for other retirement plans as well. Pension plans that come with life insurance coverage are ideal. These provide income to you during your lifetime while also ensuring support to your loved ones in your absence. If you are concerned about the cost of these plans, use tools like the pension calculator. With this tool, you can check the premiums of different plans and choose one that fits your budget.
By creating a solid retirement plan, you can chart your path to long-term financial freedom.
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